Chris Sutton has criticised Sean Dyche for his pointed comments about Dominic Calvert-Lewin following Everton’s 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, 14 September.
The match saw Calvert-Lewin miss a crucial chance to restore a two-goal lead after Ollie Watkins pulled Villa back into the game.
Presented with a one-on-one opportunity against goalkeeper Emi Martinez, the Everton striker hesitated, allowing Villa to mount a remarkable comeback.
Watkins’ second goal and a stunning strike from Jhon Duran sealed Villa’s win, leaving Dyche’s side to suffer their second consecutive 3-2 defeat after leading by two goals.
Sutton, speaking on the It’s All Kicking Off podcast on Monday, questioned Dyche’s decision to publicly criticise his striker.
“How does Dominic Calvert-Lewin feel that the manager has hung him out to dry?” Sutton remarked.
“Strikers miss chances, but it was actually a brilliant move from Everton – quick, sharp passing, timing of the run was excellent. He just couldn’t make his mind up quickly enough.”
Sutton explained that Calvert-Lewin’s touch was too heavy, allowing Martinez to close the space effectively without committing to a challenge.
The hesitation gave Villa defender Ezri Konsa enough time to make a critical last-ditch intervention.
“Sean Dyche is absolutely telling the truth,” Sutton conceded, “but sometimes it’s wise not to hang your star striker out to dry.”
Dyche’s comments, though arguably honest, may not have been the best course of action in such a public forum. While Calvert-Lewin missed several opportunities, including hitting the crossbar late on, Everton’s defensive frailties were also to blame.
For two consecutive matches, the Toffees have squandered a two-goal lead, leaving them rooted at the bottom of the Premier League table after just four games.
Calvert-Lewin’s struggles in front of goal aren’t new. After missing a number of chances last season, it’s perhaps unsurprising to see the 27-year-old continue to falter.
However, Everton’s problems extend beyond their forward. Conceding six goals in two games highlights deeper issues, particularly in defence, and the team’s collective performance must be called into question, rather than singling out individuals.
Dyche, who successfully kept Everton in the Premier League last season, now faces mounting pressure.
While the manager’s frustrations are understandable, especially after back-to-back collapses, he must tread carefully with his public comments, especially when directed at key players like Calvert-Lewin.
With Everton struggling at the foot of the table, time may be running out for Dyche to find a way to reverse the club’s fortunes. The next few weeks could prove pivotal for both the manager and his squad.